IU Northwest announces free drive-up internet access to help public cope with stay-at-home order

Many students, community members lack adequate access; campus leaders say move is a necessary public service during coronavirus fight

Tuesday Mar 24, 2020

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Indiana University Northwest announced today that it will assist the general public, along with its students and campus community, with gaining much-needed internet access during the state’s mandated stay-at-home fight against the coronavirus.

Recognizing that many may not have adequate internet access at a time when it is critically needed, IU Northwest invites members of the community to take advantage of its “Hot Spot Lot,” located in the main parking area closest to the Moraine Student Center, without leaving their cars.

Indiana University announced previously that after an extended spring break for all of its campuses, the remainder of the spring semester will be conducted entirely online beginning March 30 in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus. This presents challenges for the entire campus community, campus leaders acknowledged, but also members of the greater community, whom the University also serves.

“Sharing our resources with others in need is a priority for us all during this difficult time and IU Northwest is no exception,” said Chancellor William J. Lowe. “We’re asking our students to complete their semester in a non-traditional way, which is challenging enough. Now, with the state’s additional mandate for residents to stay at home, we realize this poses even greater obstacles, with competition for technology from other family members, and a lack of access in general for many residents. We hope this public service will help our entire community.”

Nick Ray, IU’s regional chief information officer, said he is proud IU Northwest can provide the technology required to accommodate these heightened needs. He added that the technology will allow students to complete their studies and provide additional access to the community.

Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s lieutenant governor, applauded the move, which is being implemented by IU campuses across the state.

“I am so proud of the creativity and innovation that Indiana University is showing to supply Hoosiers with free and reliable high-speed internet access as we work together to combat the spread of COVID-19,” she said. “Their efforts will allow Hoosiers, not just in Bloomington, but throughout the entire state, to click, connect, and download all while maintaining social distancing.”

How to access the IU Northwest Guest Network

When arriving on campus, make sure your device has wireless networking turned on. In the list of available networks, select “IU Guest.” Once your browser is open, on the “IU Guest WiFi” screen, enter your email address, and check the box to accept the terms of use.”

Faculty, staff, and students can log into IU’s secure networks from the lots, just as they would on campus.

The IU Northwest guest network should be treated like any public access point, and users should be aware that security is the same as any other public wireless network. It is not known how long the availability of this service will last.

The IU Police Department – Northwest officers will be patrolling the area as usual.